When Blessings Feel Like Struggles

Today my heart feels both heavy and full. Our oldest daughter left to begin her life in Huntsville, Alabama. She goes with a good job, a wonderful man who adores her, with a bright career ahead of him, serving our country, deeply devoted to her and family. All the signs point to blessing; all the lights are green. Yet the truth is, her leaving is crushing.

This tension revealed something important: sometimes our blessings feel like struggles. The very things we hope for, pray for, and long to see in our children—or in our own lives—can become the things that cause us tears when they come to pass.

If I’m honest, the alternative would be heartbreaking. What if she had no motivation, stayed home without direction, picked up destructive habits, or chosen a partner who dragged her down? That would not ease my burden—it would deepen it. No, the tears I shed today are born out of love, pride, and gratitude, not despair.

It’s a reminder of the truth: “God gives you what you need, not what you want.”

What I want is for my daughter to stay close, safe in my arms, within reach of home. What God knows she needs is a future, a calling, and a love of her own. And in giving her that, He is also teaching me something: to release, to trust, and to find peace in the very struggle of letting go.

Scripture tells us: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

Even when blessings sting, they are working for good.

Prayer
Lord, thank You for knowing what I need, even when I don’t. Thank You for blessing my daughter with a good path, a faithful partner, and a hopeful future. Though my heart aches as she leaves, help me to see that this ache is rooted in love, not in loss. Teach me to trust that the struggles I feel are often the very blessings You’ve placed before me. Let me hold to faith, knowing that Your plans are always for good. Amen.